Multi-modular aerial firefighting control method and apparatus

ABSTRACT

A multi-modular aerial firefighting control method and apparatus for use by firefighters to control fire. The multi-modular aerial firefighting control method and apparatus generally includes multi-modular units that are held together to form an aerial firefighting system. The modular units may work together or independently. The multi-modular system comprises more than one modular unit, fluid, fluid conduit, reservoir, air flow generator, multi-modular unit support structure, aerial suspension system and aerial lift system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/383,697, filed Dec. 19, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 14/692,125, filed Apr. 21, 2015, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/982,489, filed Apr. 22,2014, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/003,543, filed May 27,2014, and is also a continuation of International Application No.PCT/CA2016/051450, filed Dec. 9, 2016, each of which is herebyincorporated by reference as if fully recited herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Exemplary embodiments of the disclosure relate generally to methods anddevices for the aerial delivery of fluids for firefighting and the like.

BACKGROUND AND BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of the general inventiveconcept herein to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of theinvention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention.It is not intended to restrict key or critical elements of the inventionor to delineate the scope of the invention beyond that explicitly orimplicitly described by the following description and claims.

In one aspect, there is provided a modular unit for assembling, inmultiples thereof, an aerial emergency fluid delivery boom for use inaerial emergency activities. The modular unit comprises an emergencyfluid supply passage segment extending along an alignment path. Anemergency fluid delivery plenum is downstream of, and in operative fluidcommunication with, the emergency fluid supply passage segment, theplenum including an air inlet and an air outlet for delivering emergencyfluid under gravity thereto, in a designated operative form according toa corresponding emergency activity. The modular unit is configured forcontiguous engagement with at least one other instance of the modularunit to form the aerial emergency fluid delivery boom, with thecorresponding emergency fluid supply passage segments aligned along thealignment path and sealingly engaged at adjacent ones of the boundariesto form an assembled emergency fluid supply passage to receive a flow ofsaid emergency fluid from an upstream source and to distribute theemergency fluid to each of the corresponding plenums.

Some exemplary embodiments further comprise a housing, the emergencyfluid supply passage segment extending laterally across the housing withthe open ends formed on opposite boundaries thereof.

In some exemplary embodiments, the plenum has a longitudinal axistransverse to the emergency fluid supply passage segment.

Some exemplary embodiments further comprise a reservoir configured to bein operative fluid communication with the emergency fluid supply passagesegment for receiving emergency fluid therefrom and to deliver theemergency fluid to the plenum.

Some exemplary embodiments further comprise a pressurizing portionoperatively associated with the inlet for pressuring the air flowthrough the plenum.

In some exemplary embodiments, the pressurizing portion is active.

In some exemplary embodiments, the pressurizing portion is passive.

Some exemplary embodiments provide an aerial firefighting distributorapparatus which includes multi-modular units held together to form thenew aerial firefighting system and these modular units can work togetheror independently. The multi-modular system comprises one or moreindividual modular units, including one or more of a fluid conduit, areservoir, air flow generator, a support structure, an aerial suspensionsystem and an aerial lift system.

There has thus been outlined some of the features of the invention inorder that the detailed description thereof may be better understood,and in order that the present contribution to the art may be betterappreciated. There are additional features of the invention that will bedescribed hereinafter.

It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in itsapplication to the details of construction or to the arrangements of thecomponents set forth in the following description or illustrated in thedrawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of beingpracticed and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understoodthat the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purposeof the description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of“including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein ismeant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereofas well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms“connected,” “coupled,” and “mounted,” and variations thereof herein areused broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings,and mountings. In addition, the terms “connected” and “coupled” andvariations thereof are not restricted to physical, mechanical orelectrical connections or couplings. Furthermore, and as described insubsequent paragraphs, the specific mechanical and/or otherconfigurations illustrated in the drawings are intended to exemplifyembodiments of the invention. However, other alternative mechanicaland/or electrical or other configurations are possible which areconsidered to be within the teachings of the instant disclosure.

Thus, exemplary embodiments may provide a multi-modular aerialfirefighting control method and apparatus for providing a firefighterwith alternative and/or improved methods to control fire, and/or providea firefighter with safer and easier methods to control fire, and/or toprovide a firefighter with other methods and/or devices to control fire,or for other applications as discussed herein.

Thus, exemplary embodiments may also provide a multi-modular aerialdistribution method and apparatus that is configured to distributechemicals or fluids for agriculture, oil containment, de-icing, orweather control purposes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various other objects, features and attendant advantages will becomefully appreciated as the same becomes better understood when consideredin conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like referencecharacters designate the same or similar parts throughout the severalviews, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is an upper perspective view of one exemplary multi-modularsystem embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a front view of an exemplary multi-modular system embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a side view of an exemplary multi-modular system embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of an exemplary multi-modular system embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a top view of an exemplary multi-modular system embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of an exemplary multi-modular system embodiment;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged upper perspective view of a portion of anexemplary multi-modular system embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of one multi-modular system showing afluid passage pathway through multiple modular units;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of one modular unit, which revealsinner compartments therein;

FIG. 10 is an enlarged view illustrating modular pipe joints that joinseveral multiple-modular units;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view showing a single modular unit without anyassociated support structure;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged view showing both entry and exit pipe connectionsof a single modular unit;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged view revealing a support spar for mounting themulti-modular units of a multi-modular unit system;

FIG. 14 shows a main supply tank mounted on a support assembly with themodular units removed for clarity;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary support assembly;

FIG. 16 depicts an alternative embodiment having a horizontally mountedmodular-unit propeller assembly; and

FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of the horizontally mounted propeller fanmodular unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Turning now to the drawings, in which similar reference charactersdenote similar elements throughout the several views, the figuresillustrate multi-modular units held together to form a new aerialfirefighting system. These modular units may work together orindependently. The multi-modular system comprises one or more modularunits, fluid, fluid conduit, reservoir, air flow generator,multi-modular unit support structure, aerial suspension system andaerial lift system.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary multi-modular system,comprising two levels, the upper and lower level, the upper levelproviding a fluid supply (140), which is thus provided to a lower levelwhere the fluid may flow to the multi-modular units (10). The fluid mayflow from the upper level to lower level by gravity, and/or via a pumpor other fluid pressure devices may be provided to increase the fluidpressure/flow from the upper level (140) to the lower level (10).

In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the multi-modularaerial firefighting system may be provided with a suspension assembly asshown at (40), and may be suspended by a lift system like a helicopter.One end of a cable may be attached to the helicopter and the other endof the cable is attached to the suspension assembly (40). A reelingmechanism (40.1) shown in FIG. 3 may also be installed to allow thesystem to be reeled up or down in relation to the helicopter, to enablethe position of the system to be adjustable relative to the fire source,in some cases to increase the load drop accuracy. Reeling the systemback to an upper position near the helicopter, or other support aircraftmay, in some cases, enable the system to be carried with less drag andimproved aerodynamic stability. In some exemplary embodiments, a numberof hooks, such as four hooks (110) may be placed on the system to makethe system more aerodynamic stable.

In some exemplary embodiments, the system may be configured to directfluid to the multi modular units (10) from a fluid source below themulti-modular units (10), such as by means of pump, or the like.

In some exemplary embodiments, the tank (140) may be fitted with arefilling opening or suction hose to allow the tank to be refilled withthe emergency fluid. Also the tank may be fitted with an internalcompartment to hold and mix a foam chemical solution or the like withwater.

FIGS. 2 and 15 show, in some exemplary embodiments, that the upper levelreservoir (140) and the lower level multi modular units (10) are heldtogether by a support structure (30), where the tank (140) is secured bybracket beams (30.2) or clamp (30.1) and joints (30.3). In this case,the multi modular units (10) are mounted on beam spars (30.4) and (30.5)that attached to the main support structure (30).

Referring to FIG. 8, the tank (140) has an opening or a valve placed atthe bottom (140.1) to allow the fluid release to the multi modular unitreservoir and conduit housing (60.7) Thus, in this example, the fluidwill flow under gravity force from the upper level to the lower level.

A hub conduit, shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 14 (170), may be configured toallow the fluid to be distributed from the reservoir tank (140) to thefirst modular unit entry connection pipes (60.5) shown in FIG. 10.

In some exemplary embodiments, the multi-modular units (10) comprise amodular unit FIG. 1 (50), FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, in multiples. Eachmodular unit (50) comprises a reservoir and conduit unit, shown in FIG.8 and FIG. 9 (60.7), where the fluid may enter from the unit entry pipeFIG. 10 (60.5) and exit from the unit exit pipe (60.3). These pipes areplaced on the sides of each modular unit. The exit modular pipes, shownin FIG. 10 (60.3), are connected to the adjacent modular unit entry pipe(60.5) and so on. Each modular unit entry and exit pipe may be joinedand sealed using an O-ring clamp (60.4). These clamps may be opened orclosed by a clamp latch (60.6).

In some exemplary embodiments, the modular units together may beconfigured to allow the transport or transfer of the fluid in a flowfrom one modular unit to another through the entry and exit modularpipes (60.5) (60.3). A sealing cap (60.1) as shown in FIG. 7 may beplaced at the last modular unit pipe opening to prevent the leakage ofthe fluid. Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, each modular unit may be removedfrom the multi-modular structure by unfastening the block bar (90.1) onthe front spar (30.4) and central spar (30.5) and also opening theo-clamps (60.4) from both sides of a single modular unit.

In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 11, eachmodular unit may comprise two compartments. In general, the uppercompartment (60.7) is a fluid reservoir and conduit compartment and alower compartment is a power and storage compartment (70).

In some exemplary embodiments, the upper compartment may be configuredto enable storage of the emergency fluid in each modular unit, while atthe same time may assist to transport the fluid from one modular unit tothe adjacent one through the entry and exit pipes (60.5) (60.3) that areopened to the upper fluid compartment (60.7).

In some exemplary embodiments, the upper compartment (60.7) iscompletely sealed from the lower compartment (70). The lower compartment(70), in some cases, may be configured to store the electricalcomponents and connection of the propeller fan (160).

In some exemplary embodiments, the lower compartment (70) carryingelectrical components and the upper compartment (60.7) may be reversedso that the electrical components etc. are positioned above the fluid.Alternatively, they may be located remotely from the modular unit. Forexample all power and electrical, control components from all modularunits may be placed in one central compartment.

In some exemplary embodiments, each modular unit may also provide aplenum, in the form of a vertical wind tunnel (160.1) as shown in FIG.9, located within the structure of the upper compartment (60.7) wherethe wind tunnel is opened to the top of the modular unit and opened atthe bottom of the modular unit. In this case, the wind tunnel (160.1) isoperatively sealed from the upper fluid compartment and the storagecompartment (70) except for the controlled supply of fluids. To thatend, one or more draining openings (160.2) may be placed at the lowerend of the wind tunnel (160.1), and in communication with the uppercompartment (60.7) for delivery of fluids therefrom to the wind tunnel.

In some exemplary embodiments, the fluid in the modular unit (60.7) maynot be released or drained, except from the opening at the base of thewind tunnel (160.2).

In some exemplary embodiments, the emergency fluid may be drained fromthe modular fluid compartment (60.7) to inside the wind tunnel though(160.2).

In some exemplary embodiments, the wind tunnel opening (160.2) may beplaced at the lower end of the fluid level of the modular compartment(60.7) and in this way the gravity force may allow the fluid to drainfrom a higher fluid level compartment to a lower level opening.

In some exemplary embodiments, using the gravity force to drain theemergency fluid may eliminate the need for pumps, which would otherwiserequire additional weight and expense, while in other exemplaryembodiments, the use of pumps or other pressurizing systems may bebeneficial. For instance, a bladder (in the main tank) or anotherconfiguration to provide a pressurized main tank (140) may be deployedto increase the fluid flow rate.

In some exemplary embodiments, the lower wind tunnel opening (160.2) maybe fitted with a valve assembly to control the fluid flow rate insidethe lower end of the wind tunnel. In this way the fluid may drain to theinside the wind tunnel lower end where the positive air pressure maypush the fluid downward toward the mesh screen (80).

In some exemplary embodiments, when the emergency fluid is mixed withfoam material, the mixing of fluid and air may occur either above or asthey pass though the mesh screen (80) so as to generate foam.

In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9, a motorized propellerair fan (160) is mounted at the center wind tunnel (160.1), to generatepositive pressure flow.

In some exemplary embodiments, the power supply for the motor drivingthe fan may be placed in the modular storage compartment (70) or throughwires connecting the fan to a remote power supply.

In some exemplary embodiments, the airflow may be directed from the topopening of the wind tunnel to the lower opening, to provide sufficientairflow to mix with the fluid then pushed toward the mesh screen (80) togenerate foam. In this way, the fluid to foam ratio may be controlled bycontrolling the airflow or the fluid flow. Thus, using positive pressureairflow will allow for a higher fluid to foam ratio of up to 1:1200 ormore, as necessary and configurable for each particular application. Thefoam will thus increase the volume of effective fire retardant material,thus increasing the extent of a fire that can be covered by the aircraftpayload.

In some exemplary embodiments, at the lower end of the wind tunnel(160.1), a wire mesh may be placed to allow emergency fluid to form foamor mist depending on the fluid type and the fluid/air flow rate.

FIG. 13 illustrates how the multi-modular units may be mounted on thesupport structure spar, in one of a number of possible configurations.FIG. 14 illustrates the multi-modular system without the modular units,with the tank hub connection (170) at the bottom of the tank (140) tofacilitate fluid flow from the tank to the hub under gravity force bylocation of the hub lower on the tank. The hub conduit opening (170.1)is configured to allow fluid to flow to the modular units.

FIG. 15 shows an exemplary multi-modular unit system support structurethat holds the multiple tanks and modular units. The support structurecomprises beams (30.2) (30.3) and a round clamp (30.1) to hold eachtank. On top of the support structure, a reeling and suspension assembly(40) (40.1) is mounted, while landing gear is located beneath (150).

In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG. 16, the wind tunnel andpropeller fan may be configured horizontally or angularly off a verticalorientation relative to the mounted orientation of the modular unit(160), for example with the fluid compartment (60) positioned aboveplaced on top of the wind tunnel and the storage compartment (70) belowthe wind tunnel, as shown. FIG. 17 shows an enlarged view of the modularunits with the wind tunnel (160.1) placed horizontally. The modularunits may be secured to the support spar (30.4) by assembly block (90.1)and end plate (90.2).

In some exemplary embodiments, an opening and valve may be placed at thebottom floor of the fluid compartment (60) to allow the fluid to flowinside the horizontal wind tunnel. The fluid may then be directed towardthe wire mesh (80) placed at the end of the horizontal wind tunnel toform foam or mist, to form the emergency fluid.

In some exemplary embodiments, an aerial suspension system (40) isconfigured to lift and suspend the new multi-modular firefightingsystem, by way of a suspension cable with two ends. One end is connectedto the aerial lift system and the other end to the new aerialfirefighting system structure. A reeling mechanism such as a winch (100)may be added to the aerial suspension system to reel the system up anddown in reference to the aerial lift system. The aerial suspensionsystem is configured to suspend and reel up/down the whole multi modularunit firefighting apparatus. The suspension system comprises a cable, anaerial attachment connection to attach the cable, a multi-modularattachment connection to attach the other end of the cable to the multimodular system, a cable reeling mechanism to reel up/down themulti-modular system in reference to the lift system, such as ahelicopter. The system is also provided with a controller to control thesuspension and reeling function.

In some exemplary embodiments, the suspension system may comprise one ormore cables. Suspension and connection hoses also may be provided tosupply the multi-modular apparatus with fluid in case the reservoir ismounted on the lift system.

The reeling mechanism may be provided in the form of a winch, which maybe mounted on the aerial lift system, on the suspension cable or on themulti-modular apparatus.

Fluid conduit (60) is provided to carry the fluid from the reservoir(140) to the each unit. The reservoir may be mounted on themulti-modular system, on the lift system, or may be independent with aconnection conduit.

The reservoir (140) holds the fluid and supplies it to the multi-modularfirefighting apparatus through the fluid conduit (60).

A refill mechanism may be placed on the multi-modular apparatus to allowfor refilling of the reservoir. The reservoir (140) may have a foamsolution section to hold and mix the solution with water in certainconcentrations. The fluid in the reservoir may be premixed or mixedinside the reservoir.

The fluid conduit may thus be configured to supply each modular unitwith the fluid to be distributed. A controller valve is also provided tocontrol fluid flow.

The reservoir may be made of single or multiple structures. It may bemounted on the multi-modular firefighting apparatus, located at anaerial location, such as a helicopter or plane, or located on the grounda connection hose joining it to an aerial location such as a hoveringhelicopter, ground-based boom device or the like.

Also the fluid conduit (60) to each modular unit may replace the needfor the main reservoir by making it large enough to hold the desiredamount of the fluid.

A fluid pump, or flexible pressure chamber, may be used to increase thefluid pressure and deliver the flow from the reservoir.

The reservoir(s) may be configured to hold fluids useful for the methodsdescribed herein. These fluids may contain a range of fluids used byfirefighters to control a fire, such as water, solution, foam, gel,mixed fluid, chemical and other materials, as would be understood bythose of skill in the art.

Water may be used alone or mixed with certain chemicals, solutions,slurries, and the like to make the water more efficient in controllingor preventing the fire. The fluid inside reservoir (140) may beconfigured to provide a mixing function for the solution mixer assemblyto reach a desired concentration and/or consistency. The fluid may bepremixed before loading.

Fluid types may depend on the utility and purpose of the mission that isof the type of fire or the like. For example, in case of a de-icingmission, the reservoir may be filled with de-icing fluid to providede-icing of structures like high voltage cables, airplanes and others.For oil containment, fluids used in the industry may be deployed withexemplary system embodiments herein, to contain and/or dissolve spilledoil on land or at sea.

Each unit may be fitted with an air generator (160, 50) to enable fluiddistribution and/or foam formulation. This generator may comprise astructure to capture wind air or actively generate positive pressureflow, such as a motor and a propeller fan (160). The motor may bepowered by water, electricity, gas or any other viable source to run thefan, provided it is capable of functioning on location in the unit atthe required power level to deliver sufficient power.

The air flow generator may also be deployed to mix fluid with air forfluid distribution, foam formulation and deployment.

The air flow generator may be provided in a number of configurationsincluding, in one example, a motorized propeller in different speed andsize configurations depending on the application.

The power may be generated from an electrical, water pressure and gasmotor to run the propeller to generate air flow.

An adaptor may be mounted on the air flow generator like a screen (80)to allow the fluid to be formulated into foam.

Nozzles from a fluid conduit may be placed in front of the air flow toallow the fluid to be mixed with air.

Other configurations may be deployed to generate air flow, such as withscoops or hoods, to harvest air from wind currents generated on thestructure when the multi-modular structure travels.

In some exemplary embodiments, an air entry opening may be provided toallow harvesting of wind generated from a helicopter rotor or wind forceto flow and mix the fluid. In such case, a powered fan may or may not bedeployed to generate more air flow.

The modular units may be carried side by side by the support structure(30) to allow them to be used as one system. The support structure maybe configured to secure the reservoir (30.1, 30.4), fluid conduitsupport structure (90), air generator units support structure (90, 90.1)and other system components.

In some exemplary embodiments, the support structure also comprises theaerial lift suspension system (40), which may be used to mount all theparts of the apparatus. The purpose is to secure the parts together, aswell as to provide an effective steering mechanism. Adding one or morehorizontal stabilizers (130) and vertical stabilizers (120) may help tobalance the apparatus when in use.

Landing gear (150) may be positioned for effective landing andtransportation. Supporting structure may allow the components, alongwith the supporting structure itself, to be non-removable, or removablefor assembly, disassembly, storage and transportation, as need be.

In some exemplary embodiments, the use of the modular units enablesdifferent system configurations, or shapes, depending on the need,application and the like. For example an H shape may be deployed withseveral rows of multiple-modular units to provide a more condensed fluiddelivery that is at an effective fluid delivery rate given. V shapedconfigurations may be more effective for narrower field deliveryfootprints, particularly when the system is being used in relativelynarrow access ways and the like, such as in valleys, ravines and thelike.

In some exemplary embodiments, the support structure may be configuredto enable the multi-modular units to be oriented between operative andinoperative positions either horizontally or vertically, to assist withstorage, fluid refill in tight areas and easy transportation.

Propellers or jets may also be added for better control of the pitch,yaw and roll.

In some exemplary embodiments, the system comprises one or more modularunits (50). Each modular unit may work independently or together todistribute the fluid.

In some exemplary embodiments, each modular unit may be configured toinclude an air flow generator (160), fluid conduit (60), fluid, andpower supply assembly (70). These modular units may be connected to thesupport structure (30).

In some exemplary embodiments, the modular unit may comprise an air flowgenerator, reservoir, fluid conduit, fluid nozzle distribution, foammixing compartment like screen (80).

In some exemplary embodiments, the modular unit may be configured todistribute fluids in different formats including foams, slurries and thelike.

In some exemplary embodiments, a fluid valve may be placed in the unitto control the fluid flow.

In some exemplary embodiments, a power supply may be provided to the airflow generator by a wire or by a power unit mounted on or outside theair flow generator.

In some exemplary embodiments, the modular unit may be permanentlysecured to the support structure or may alternatively be removable.

In some exemplary embodiments, power supply and controller functions maybe carried out in situ or be delivered to the unit from a remote source.

In some exemplary embodiments, the reservoir located in the modular unitmay be replaced by a central reservoir located on the main multi-modularstructure.

In some exemplary embodiments, the aerial lift system may be configuredto lift the multi-modular firefighting system and to carry it to atarget area like a wild fire. One such example includes a helicopter.The multi-modular system may also be hooked or mounted on thehelicopter. Other lift systems may be used, such as firefighting vehicleladders, airplanes, lighter than air vehicles, cranes and the like.

In some exemplary embodiments, a helicopter may be configured to carry,move, and use the multi-modular firefighting apparatus. The apparatusmay be mounted on the helicopter or suspended by a cable. The fluidreservoir may be mounted on the helicopter with a supply hose connectedto the apparatus.

In some exemplary embodiments, the aerial lift system may beincorporated into a common vehicle with the multi-modular unitapparatus, by using a multi-rotor on it as structure to lift and movethe apparatus.

In some exemplary embodiments, lighter than air vehicles may also beused to carry and move the apparatus.

In some exemplary embodiments, two or more multi-modular units may bearranged together to achieve the desired shape according to the jobrequired. The reservoir may be secured to the support structure by usingstraps, screws or other couplings. Two reservoirs may be securedtogether and to the support structure.

In some exemplary embodiments, the reeling mechanism assembly may beplaced in the middle of the two reservoirs and in the middle of theapparatus structure for better balance. The reeling winch may be placedin the center to reel the structure apparatus up and down in referenceto the aerial lift system.

In some exemplary embodiments, the reservoir may have a fluid refillpump to allow the reservoir to be refilled with fluid. The pump may beplaced to pump the fluid from the reservoir to the modular unit.

In some exemplary embodiments, the reservoir may have a valve at thebottom and connected to the fluid conduit. The fluid conduit may beconfigured to carry the fluid from the reservoir to the each modularunit. The fluid conduit may be secured to the apparatus supportstructure. The fluid conduit may have a distribution nozzle at the levelof the each modular unit. Another valve at each modular unit may also beplaced to better control the fluid flow.

In some exemplary embodiments, the air flow generator may be secured tothe apparatus structure and direct the air flow to the distributionnozzles. A mixing chamber may be provided to mix the air and fluid and ascreen may be placed in the frame of the air flow and fluid nozzledistribution head to allow the formulation of the foam.

In some exemplary embodiments, the air flow generator power supply maybe secured to the modular unit or to the structure apparatus. A battery,power generator or power supply from the helicopter may deliver power tothe air flow generator.

In some exemplary embodiments, a reeling assembly, one or more valves,and/or an air flow generator may communicate with a main controller tocontrol and synchronize their function(s), and may be placed near theoperator and connected to the multi-modular firefighting apparatus bywired or wireless connection.

In some exemplary embodiments, a reservoir may be mounted on the aeriallift system with a supply connection hose to connect the reservoir tothe multi-modular unit.

In some exemplary embodiments, the reservoir may be located on theground like a fire truck and a connection hose connecting it to themulti-modular apparatus.

In some exemplary embodiments, a reeling winch may be placed on theaerial lift system or it may be eliminated and use a suspension cablealone.

In some exemplary embodiments, the aerial lift system may beincorporated with the multi-modular apparatus by having a single ormulti rotor placed on the modular motor apparatus, which may becontrolled remotely.

In some exemplary embodiments, when used in connection with theairplane, the multi-modular apparatus may be placed below the wings ornear the rear of the airplane. In some exemplary embodiments, thereservoir may be placed inside the airplane.

In some exemplary embodiments, the multi-modular apparatus may beincorporated in the airplane wing to decrease drag and simplify airplanemodification.

In some exemplary embodiments, the multi-modular firefighting apparatusis configured to give the operator better, or alternative, control overfluid drop and over the amount, type, elevation, area and distributiondensity thereof. The operator may fill the reservoir with water and foamsolution. The operator may activate the water and foam solution mixer onthe ground or during flight.

During operation of some exemplary embodiments, an operator may fill thetank (140) with water and foam solution though suction hose or a fillingopening. The multi-modular system may then be suspended to a helicopter,or other airlift vehicle for instance, by a cable. The foam solution maythen be mixed inside the tank prior to release of the fluid to themodular units.

A valve may be deployed to control the release of fluid from the tank tothe hub conduit (170). The operator may then prepare the system prior todispatch to a target fire area. In this case, the modular system may bereeled up, until reaching the target area, and then it may be reeleddown using reeling and suspension mechanism (40) to a desired deploymentelevation, according to the prevailing conditions at the site.

In some exemplary embodiments, the operator selects the target area likea wild fire and calculates the operation parameters applicable for aparticular fluid drop for the wild fire, such as distance, flame height,temperature and other factors. The operator may then connect one end ofthe cable from the suspension assembly to the helicopter. The helicoptermay then be controlled to lift off and fly with the installedmulti-modular system. When reaching the target area, the operator maythen reel down the apparatus to the desired fluid drop height. Theoperator may then activate the apparatus to allow the run of the airflow generator and open the fluid valves. When the apparatus startsproducing foam, the helicopter pilot may fly over the target fire toexecute the fluid drop, to assist in extinguishing the fire. Theoperator may then communicate with the pilot to allow the right flightdirection and height. When the operator finishes the fluid drop, he orshe will turn the air and fluid flow off and reel up the multi-modularapparatus.

The operator may then simultaneously open the tank valve and power onthe propeller fans of the modular units. Referring to FIG. 9, the fluidthen flows from the tank (140) to the hub conduit (170) then to thefluid compartment (60) of the nearest modular unit, at which time thefluid is then distributed along the modular units via the adjacent entryand exit pipes (60.3) and (60.5), and thus from the first fluidcompartment (60) to the adjacent units until all the fluid compartmentsare filled with the emergency fluid. The fluid flows under gravity forcefrom the tank above the modular unit to units placed lowered to thetank. The fluid then drains though the opening at the bottom of the windtunnel compartment (160.2). The propeller fan (160) generates positiveairflow pressure and pushes the air and fluid downward. When water,already mixed with foam solution, is mixed with air and pushed towardthe wire mesh (80), foam will be generated. After emptying the load, theoperator may then turn off the propeller fans and reel the modularsystem back up to its storage or travel position relative to thehelicopter, or the like. The operator may then return or be directed toa refilling location to refill the tank for another operation. Theoperator may refill the reservoir by activating the refill pump, whilethe pilot may hover over top of the fluid source to allow the fluidrefill for another operation.

In some exemplary embodiments, in cases where the fluid source andreservoir are on the ground, the operator may attach the multi-modularapparatus to the helicopter then fly near the target. The operator mayreel down the apparatus to the ground, to allow the ground crew toconnect the supply hose to the apparatus. The pilot and operator maythen fly over the target area and activate the fluid and air flowvalves.

In case of using water alone, the operator may remove the screen fromthe multi-modular to allow the fluid to be delivered in different wayslike mist, large particles or liquid form.

In some exemplary embodiments, a supply hose may be connected to themulti modular system to supply fluid from the ground level, tosupplement or to replace the central tank(s) (140).

In some exemplary embodiments, the multi-modular system may be changedand rearranged in different configurations, such as two rows ofmulti-modular units, or square, T, H, or circular configurations. Thus,the modular units may be placed in different configurations, which maysuit different fire sites, weather conditions, approach speeds and thelike, to maximize the coverage area.

In case of de-icing, the reservoir may be filled with de-icing fluid andthe operator will activate the multi-modular function when reaching tothe target area.

In case of oil containment, the operator may fill the reservoir with oilcontainment fluid, and then activate the multi-modular function whenreaching the target.

In case of weather control, the operator may fill the reservoir withwater and activate the multi-modular function.

In case of agricultural use, the operator may fill the reservoir withthe needed chemicals and activate the multi-modular apparatus todistribute the fluid.

What has been described and illustrated herein are certain exemplaryembodiments of the invention. The terms, descriptions and figures usedherein are set forth by way of illustration only and are not meant aslimitations. Those skilled in the art will recognize that manyvariations are possible within the spirit and scope of the invention inwhich all terms are meant in their broadest, reasonable sense unlessotherwise indicated. Any headings utilized within the description arefor convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.

REFERENCE NUMBER INDEX

-   (10) Multi-modular units-   (20) Reservoir and body support structure-   (30) Support structure-   (30.1) Tank support ring-   (30.2) Framework structure-   (30.3) Front tank support beam-   (30.4) Support assembly front spar-   (30.5) Support assembly central spar-   (40) Suspension and reeling assembly-   (40.1) Winch assembly-   (50) Single modular unit-   (60) Modular reservoir and conduit housing-   (60.1) Conduit cover-   (60.2) Pipe connection conduit flange-   (60.3) Outlet pipe opening-   (60.4) Pipe joint O-ring clamp-   (60.5) Inlet pipe opening-   (60.6) O-ring clamp latch-   (60.7) Modular reservoir and conduit-   (70) Modular power housing unit-   (80) Mesh screen-   (90) Multi-modular units support assembly-   (90.1) Support block to secure the unit to front and central spar-   (90.2) Support assembly spar stopper-   (100) Suspension reeling winch-   (110) Hock on the support assembly-   (120) Vertical stabilizer-   (130) Horizontal stabilizer-   (140) Reservoir fluid tank-   (140.1) Opening at the bottom of the reservoir to allow the fluid to    flow to the multi-modular units-   (150) Landing gear-   (160) Propeller fan assembly-   (160.1) Wind tunnel-   (160.2) Opening drain on the wind tunnel-   (170) Hub conduit connection-   (170.1) Hub conduit opening end to connect to the modular unit-   (170.2) Hub conduit to allow the fluid flow from the upstream    reservoir to modular unit

What is claimed is:
 1. An aerial foam delivery system for fire control,the system comprising a plurality of modular foam generator units, eachof which is configured to be assembled in a designated one of a numberof modular configuration arrangements for operative suspension beneath avertical lift according to one or more designated foam drop path patternfactors, the plurality of foam generator units organized into one ormore groups with each group including one or more foam generator units,each unit and group operable to receive one or more designated fluidssubstantially by gravity for generating a designated foam and responsiveto a control function for delivering the designated foam or a derivativethereof.
 2. A system as defined in claim 1, wherein the one or moredesignated fluids are the same for the one or more groups.
 3. A systemas defined in claim 2, wherein the one or more designated fluids foreach of the one or more groups includes one or more designated foamsconstituents and/or liquids, with corresponding forms, constituents,ingredients and/or flow rates.
 4. A system as defined in claim 3,wherein the designated fluid of one group is a foam solution and thedesignated fluid of another group is water.
 5. A system as defined inclaim 4, wherein the modular configuration arrangements include one ormore of a I-, II-, III-, H-, U-, V-, C-, X-, and an O-shapedconfiguration arrangement in one or more rows or levels in one or moredimensions, relative to the vertical lift.
 6. A modular foam generatorto be suspended from an aerial lift for use in aerial foam delivery,comprising a plenum, the plenum comprising: i. a first air inlet zoneopen to atmosphere and configured to generate an air flow at a firstdesignated volume flow rate; ii. a second supply fluid distribution zonedownstream of the first air inlet zone, the second supply fluiddistribution zone being in communication directly or indirectly with asupply fluid source to receive supply fluid therefrom substantially bygravity, the second supply fluid distribution zone being configured toprovide a plurality of distributed streams of supply fluid laterallysubstantially by gravity across the plenum though a series of perforatedlinear fluid distributors extending laterally across the plenum,collectively at a second designated flow rate; and iii. a thirdfoam-forming outlet zone downstream of the second supply fluiddistribution zone, the third foam-forming outlet zone including a meshscreen arranged to receive foam-forming supply fluid substantially bygravity, the third foam-forming outlet zone configured to receive theair flow at the first designated volume flow rate and the distributedstreams of fluid at the second designated volume flow rate to generatefoam at an expansion rate according to the first and second volume flowrates.
 7. A modular foam generator as defined in claim 6, wherein theperforated linear fluid distributors include a plurality of perforatedpipe members, each with an elongate cross section having a major axissubstantially aligned with the plenum axis.
 8. A modular foam generatoras defined in claim 6, further comprising a reservoir configured to bein operative fluid communication with a supply fluid passage segment forreceiving the supply fluid therefrom and to deliver the supply fluid tothe plenum.
 9. A modular foam generator as defined in claim 8, whereinthe reservoir surrounds the plenum, at least in part, and the perforatedlinear fluid distributors are in fluid communication with the reservoirat a plurality of locations spaced circumferentially around the plenum.10. A modular foam generator as defined in claim 6, further comprising apressurizing portion operatively associated with the first air inletzone for pressuring the air flow through the plenum.
 11. A modular foamgenerator as defined in claim 10, wherein the pressurizing portion isactive.
 12. A modular foam generator as defined in claim 11, wherein thepressurizing portion includes a motorized fan.
 13. A modular foamgenerator as defined in claim 10, wherein the pressurizing portion ispassive.
 14. A modular foam generator as defined in claim 13, whereinthe plenum has a boundary surface with a plurality of first openings,each in fluid communication with a corresponding distributor inlet, avalve portion including a valve ring portion which is concentricallyarranged with the boundary surface and provided with a plurality ofsecond openings, each to align with a corresponding first opening in anopen position, and a valve actuator for actuating the valve ring portionbetween open and closed positions.
 15. A modular foam generator asdefined in claim 14, wherein the valve actuator includes a motorizedtransmission to move the valve ring portion relative to the boundarysurface.
 16. A modular foam generator as defined in claim 15, whereinthe valve ring portion supports a plurality of sealing portions, eachconfigured to align with a corresponding first opening to operativelyseal the first opening when the valve ring portion is in the closedposition.
 17. A method of forming foam for use in aerial foam deliveryfrom an aerial vertical lift, comprising: a. providing an array of atleast one plenum, each with opposite ends providing an air inlet zonethat is open to atmosphere and a foam outlet zone respectively, the foamoutlet zone including a mesh screen arranged to receive foam-formingsupply fluid and a flow of air; b. establishing the flow of air throughthe plenum; c. supplying the at least one plenum with foam-forming fluidsubstantially under gravity; d. distributing, substantially by gravity,a plurality of streams of the foam-forming supply fluid laterally acrossa distribution zone in the plenum between the air inlet zone and thefoam outlet zone, wherein the streams of foam-forming supply fluid passthrough the plenum with the air flow to the foam outlet zone tointermingle with the mesh screen to form foam, for delivery by gravityto a target area.
 18. A method as defined in claim 17, wherein thedistributing includes providing a series of perforated linear fluiddistributors extending laterally across the plenum, and delivering thefoam-forming supply fluid to the fluid distributors to form the streamstherefrom.
 19. A method as defined in claim 17, wherein the arrayincludes a plurality of plenums, with each plenum being in fluidcommunication directly or indirectly with a corresponding foam-formingfluid supply passage segment associated therewith, further comprisingdistributing the foam-forming supply fluid from one passage segment toanother next along the array substantially by gravity, to deliver thefoam-forming supply fluid to each plenum location.